Hardware Validation & Debug Engineer - DDR
As a Hardware Validation & Debug Engineer specializing in DDR at Graphcore, you will play a pivotal role in ensuring the reliability and performance of advanced AI hardware under real-world conditions. This position is based in Bristol, UK, within Graphcore's Hardware Engineering team, which is dedicated to developing cutting-edge AI compute solutions. You will collaborate closely with Architecture, Silicon Engineering, Hardware Engineering, Firmware, PCB Design, and Power and Signal Integrity teams to validate and debug memory and system interfaces.
Your primary responsibilities will include creating and executing validation and debug plans for new hardware platforms, focusing on LPDDR5-9600, slow-speed interfaces, PCB issues, power behavior, and signal integrity. This hands-on lab work involves investigating failures, tuning memory subsystems, and translating complex findings into actionable insights across hardware and firmware teams. You will be expected to take ownership of bring-up activities, drive root cause analysis, and facilitate cross-team collaboration to resolve issues efficiently.
The ideal candidate will have strong hands-on hardware debug experience, including board bring-up and subsystem debug. Experience in validating and tuning LPDDR memory subsystems, particularly LPDDR5, is essential. Proficiency in debugging PCB, power, signal integrity, and interface issues through to root cause is required. A solid understanding of DDR training, timing optimization, margin analysis, eye diagrams, and stability validation is necessary. Confident use of lab instrumentation, such as high-bandwidth oscilloscopes, BERT systems, and VNA/TDR equipment, is expected. The ability to work independently, take responsibility, and drive issue resolution across hardware and firmware teams is crucial.
Graphcore offers a comprehensive benefits package, including flexible working arrangements to support work-life balance, generous leave policies, and a retirement plan with up to 5% matched pension contributions. Employees are also eligible for phantom equity, providing a stake in the company's success. The workplace features thoughtfully designed office spaces for collaboration, with free food and an on-site barista to support your day. Additional benefits include income protection, life assurance, private medical insurance, dental cover, and a cycle-to-work scheme.
At Graphcore, the company culture emphasizes diversity, equity, and inclusion, fostering an environment where every individual feels valued and empowered to succeed. Employees are encouraged to bring their unique perspectives and strengths to the team, contributing to innovative solutions in AI hardware. The company supports continuous learning and development, offering access to a digital learning platform and in-house training across a wide range of topics. With a commitment to work-life balance, Graphcore provides flexible working arrangements, unlimited annual leave, and generous parental leave benefits.